GMAT Analytical Writing (AWA): Template, Tips & Sample Essay

The GMAT's Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) might not be part of the exam anymore, but that doesn't lessen the significance of writing skills! If you’re getting ready for the AWA or want to enhance your analytical writing for other exciting reasons, knowing the best strategies is super helpful. This blog is here to guide you as you discover effective ways to fine-tune your writing, encouraging you to think critically, present a clear argument, and communicate persuasively—skills that are still super important even after the GMAT.

Key Highlights:

• The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) is not part of the GMAT’s examination anymore.
• The Analytical Writing Assessment used to evaluate critical thinking and argument analysis skills by requiring test-takers to critique a provided argument within 30 minutes.
• Effective essays included a clear introduction, flaw-focused body paragraphs with evidence, and a concise conclusion.
• Pre-defined templates improve focus, time management, and adherence to GMAT standards; practice with resources like Veritas Prep and The Official Guide to GMAT Review 2022 is key.

About GMAT AWA Section

The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) used to evaluate an individual's capacity for critical thinking and argument analysis. Using a structured format that includes an introduction, body paragraphs that address specific flaws, and a conclusion that summarises the main points.

You would critique a given statement by pointing out logical inconsistencies, unsupported assumptions, and deficiencies in reasoning. 

To ensure a thorough assessment of content, logic, grammar, and syntax, the AWA was scored on a scale from 0 to 6 and evaluated by both a human assessor and a computerised system.

Need help to make it possible? Yocket Prep offers personalised coaching and resources to help you achieve your GMAT goals faster and more effectively.

GMAT Analytical Writing Section: Important Topics

Understanding the essential topics is vital for excelling in the GMAT Analytical Writing Section. While it's good to have a basic understanding of the less emphasised topics, focusing your study efforts on the core areas will provide the best results. Here are the broad areas you need to focus on:  

GMAT AWA Template

The GMAT AWA template constitutes an invaluable resource for the formulation of coherent, well-organised essays under stringent time constraints. It offers a systematic approach to the analysis and critique of arguments, directing the writer through a compelling introduction, detailed body paragraphs that address specific flaws, and a succinct conclusion. 

 By adhering to this framework, test-takers can maintain their trajectory, avert digressions, and address all requisite components, thereby enhancing their prospects of attaining a high AWA score.

Components Of a GMAT AWA Template

Both a computer and a person will examine and grade your essay in terms of compelling ideas and examples, an organisational framework to communicate your argument, vocabulary & phrasing, and grammatical correction. The following components are what a good GMAT essay sample should include:

• Essay Structure: The template should include your intended essay's structure and should adhere to a para-by-para-arrangement.
• Content: Each paragraph's required notions or points must be specified in the template. Each paragraph needs to contain no more than one primary theme.
• Pre-Used Words and Phases: The format must also include particular words and statements that you intend to incorporate in the segments. You can use these to jot down any weaknesses you find in the argument.

Now that we are aware of the components that are incorporated in a GMAT AWA template, let us try and create or write our very own AWA template. Not to panic! We’ll be learning how to make your template in the next section together!

How to Write GMAT AWA Essays? 

You should use a GMAT essay template to help you create a strong AWA essay. Using your essay template is always an option. To choose which AWA writing prompt works best for you, try a couple of them and create an essay template. Your very own essay template will have the following structure:

• Introductory Para: The opening paragraph should not be more than two or three lines long. In your introduction, you must briefly outline the argument and provide your viewpoint on it. Furthermore, you may claim that the author's argument presented isn't all that weak.
• Main body of the essay: The essay's core paragraph count can range from two to three. Each paragraph must address a different weakness you have seen in the thesis. You must provide sufficient evidence to back up your assertions. You might also clarify how the argument is compromised by the error.
• Ending: In your essay's conclusion, you must demonstrate how the reasoning is flawed. Additionally, you must provide a succinct summary of your evaluation and back it up with a thesis declaration. You may also point out how the writer could have strengthened their argument and offered solutions for them to fix the weaknesses in their reasoning.

How is GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section Scored?

The Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section on the GMAT involves a 30-minute essay that tests the ability to analyse and evaluate an argument critically. The task requires you to provide a well-reasoned critique of a given conclusion based on the reasoning presented.

The final AWA score is determined by averaging the ratings from two independent evaluators. Scores are given in half-point increments, ranging from 0 to 6. This writing score is calculated independently and does not influence the scores for the Verbal, Quantitative, or Total sections of the exam.

Tips to Improve GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) Score

Working on a strong AWA response involves not just having solid analytical skills but also the knack for presenting your critique in a well-organised and concise format. To support you on your journey to success, here are some tips for preparing and writing that AWA essay:

• Focus on Objectivity: The AWA really encourages an objective critique of the argument instead of sharing your personal opinions on the topic. Your mission is to analyse the reasoning given, spot any flaws, and steer clear of adding your subjective views. 
• Analyse Assumptions and Evidence: Every argument in the AWA comes with assumptions that connect evidence to its conclusion. Your role is to uncover these assumptions and evaluate how valid they are. For instance, if the evidence provided is weak or off-base, the conclusion loses its punch.
• Craft a Strong Conclusion: Your conclusion should kindly restate your thesis while summarising the flaws you've identified in the essay. Try not to bring in new points at this stage. Instead, rephrase your thesis to clearly and succinctly reinforce your main argument.
• Write with Confidence: Adopting a confident tone boosts the strength of your writing. Use precise language and avoid words like "somewhat" or "might," as they can dilute your argument. For instance, instead of saying, "The argument might lack sufficient evidence," confidently state, "The argument lacks sufficient evidence." Showing confidence in your critique reflects clarity in your reasoning.
• Be Concise: Being concise makes your essay a breeze to read. Avoid unnecessary words or long-winded descriptions. For example, instead of saying, "The evidence provided is somewhat weak and might not strongly support the conclusion," simply say, "The evidence is weak and fails to support the conclusion." This approach saves time and makes your writing more enjoyable to read.
• Prioritise Planning: Taking a moment to plan your essay before writing ensures a polished and organised response. Set aside a few minutes to outline your points, pinpoint the argument's flaws, and logically arrange them. A well-thought-out plan keeps you on track and guarantees a clear, cohesive analysis within the 30-minute time frame.
• Use Familiar Language: Stick to language that feels comfortable for you to help avoid errors or awkward phrasing. For example, instead of reaching for overly complex words, focus on clarity and simplicity. Writing in a natural way allows you to express your ideas more effectively while keeping precision and professionalism at the forefront.

How to Prepare for GMAT Analytical Writing Section?

Here are some key strategiesto prepare for the GMAT Analytical Writing Section:

• Read the Prompt Carefully: Take a moment to thoroughly understand the argument being presented. Identify the conclusion, the evidence provided, and any assumptions made.
• Plan your Essay: Before you start writing, outline your essay. This should include your introduction, the main body paragraphs where you analyse the argument, and a conclusion.
• Use Clear and Concise Language: Write in a formal and academic tone, using clear and precise language. Avoid jargon and overly complex sentences.
• Provide Specific Examples: Strengthen your critique by providing specific examples that illustrate the flaws in the argument.
• Proofread: Take a few minutes at the end to proofread your essay for any grammatical errors or typos.

By honing these skills and developing a strategic approach, you'll be well-equipped to tackle questions in the GMAT Analytical Writing Section.

Recommended Books for GMAT AWA preparation

There are several GMAT AWA books in the market to assist applicants with their analytical writing assessment. A few of the books that will aid in your study and help you perform well on the GMAT AWA portion are listed below:

1. Veritas Prep

Each topic is covered in detail in this book with some additional practice questions. It is among the top books for GMAT preparation because it provides a staggering amount of knowledge and exhaustive practice examinations.

2. GMAT Analytical Writing: Solutions to the Real Argument Topics (Test Prep series)

It offers expert strategies and streamlined techniques intended to elicit focused responses, contains about 50 solved argument themes, and more.

3. Complete GMAT Strategy Guide Set: Manhattan Prep

Students will be able to find the answer to their preparation plan with this preparation guide package, which includes over 200 free GMAT sample papers and 6 full-length computer-adaptive mock examinations.

4. The Official Guide to GMAT Review 2022

The Official Guide to the GMAT Review 2022 provides all the pertinent exam information as well as actual previous GMAT test questions. The bundle contains three books: GMAT Review 2022 Guide, GMAT Quantitative Review 2022 Guide, and GMAT Verbal Review 2022 Guide. All three of these books cover the entire test.

GMAT Analytical Writing Sample Questions

The GMAT Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section consists of one essay: the Analysis of an Argument. Here are a few sample questions to help you practise:

1. To stay competitive and continue to attract the best employees, Company X should invest in the new state-of-the-art virtual reality (VR) training system. A recent study shows that companies that have adopted VR training have seen a 20% increase in employee satisfaction and a 15% improvement in productivity. Therefore, the investment in VR technology will not only enhance Company X's reputation as an industry leader but also lead to higher profits and lower employee turnover.
2. To solve the problem of traffic congestion, the city council should invest in expanding the public transportation system. A recent survey of city residents showed that 75% of respondents would be willing to use public transportation if it were more accessible. This increased use of public transportation would reduce the number of cars on the road, leading to less traffic and pollution. Moreover, expanding the public transportation system would create new jobs and stimulate economic growth in the city.
3. The best way for Company Y to increase its annual sales revenue is to focus on advertising its products on social media platforms. A recent study indicates that consumers are more likely to purchase after seeing an advertisement on social media than any other form of advertising. Therefore, by shifting its advertising budget towards social media, Company Y can maximise its sales potential and outperform its competitors in the market.
4. In a recent citywide poll, 15 percent more residents said that they watch television programmes about the visual arts than was the case in a poll conducted five years ago. During these past five years, the number of people visiting our city’s art museums has increased by a similar percentage. Since the corporate funding that supports public television, where most of the visual arts programmes appear, is now being threatened with severe cuts, we can expect that attendance at our city’s art museums will also start to decrease. Thus some of the city’s funds for supporting the arts should be reallocated to public television
5. Since a competing lower-priced newspaper, The Bugle was started five years ago, The Mercury’s circulation has declined by 10,000 readers. The best way to get more people to read The Mercury is to reduce its price below that of The Bugle, at least until circulation increases to former levels. The increased circulation of The Mercury will attract more businesses to buy advertising space in the paper.
6. The falling revenues that the company is experiencing coincide with delays in manufacturing. These delays, in turn, are due in large part to poor planning in purchasing metals. Consider further that the manager of the department that handles purchasing of raw materials has an excellent background in general business, psychology, and sociology, but knows little about the properties of metals. The company should, therefore, move the purchasing manager to the sales department and bring in a scientist from the research division to be the manager of the purchasing department.
7. For the past century, an increase in the number of residential building permits issued per month in a particular region has been a reliable indicator of improvements to that region’s economy. If the monthly number of residential building permits issued rises consistently for a few months, the local unemployment rate almost always falls, and economic production increases. This well-established connection reveals an effective method by which a regional government can end a local economic downturn: relax regulations governing all construction so that many more building permits can be issued.
8. Mental health experts have observed that symptoms of mental illness are less pronounced in many patients after group music therapy sessions and job openings in the music therapy field have increased during the past year. Consequently, graduates from our degree programme for music therapists should have no trouble finding good positions. To help improve the financial status of Omega University, we should, therefore, expand our music therapy degree programme by increasing its enrollment targets.
9. Nationwide over the past five years, sales have increased significantly at outlet stores that deal exclusively in reduced-price merchandise. Therefore, we should publicise the new mall that we are building at Pleasantville as a central location for outlet shopping and rent storage space only to outlet companies. By taking advantage of the success of outlet stores, this plan should help ensure full occupancy of the mall and enable us to recover quickly the costs of building the mall.
10. Of all the cities in their region, Beaumont and Fletcher are showing the fastest growth in the number of new businesses. Therefore, Avia should establish a commuter route between them as a means of countering recent losses on its main passenger routes. To make the commuter route more profitable from the outset, Avia should offer a 1/3 discount on tickets purchased within two days of the flight. Unlike tickets bought earlier, discount tickets will be nonrefundable, and so gain from their sale will be greater.
11. In the computer hardware division last year, profits fell significantly below projections, the product line decreased from 20 to only 5 items, and expenditures for employee benefits increased by 15 percent. Nevertheless, Consolidated’s board of directors has approved an annual salary of more than $1 million for our company’s chief executive officer. The present board members should be replaced because they are unconcerned about the increasing costs of employee benefits and salaries, despite the company’s problems generating income.
12. The country of Oleum can best solve the problem of its balance of trade deficit by further increasing the tax on its major import, crude oil. After Oleum increased the tax on imported crude oil four months ago, consumption of gasoline declined by 20 percent. Therefore, by imposing a second and significantly higher tax increase next year, Oleum will dramatically decrease its balance of trade deficit.
13. This year, despite HomeStyle’s move to new office space, we have seen a decline in company morale and productivity and a corresponding increase in administrative costs. To rectify these problems, we should begin using a newly developed software package for performance appraisal and feedback. Managers will save time by simply choosing comments from a preexisting list; then the software will automatically generate feedback for the employee. The human resources department at Counterbalance, the manufacturer of the countertops we install, reports satisfaction with the package.
14. During a two-week study of postal operations, the Presto City post office handled about twice as many items as the Lento City post office, even though the cities are about the same size. Moreover, customer satisfaction appears to be higher in Presto City, since the study found fewer complaints regarding the Presto City post office. Therefore, the postmasters at these two offices should exchange assignments: the Presto City postmaster will solve the problems of inefficiency and customer dissatisfaction at the Lento City office while the Lento City postmaster will learn firsthand the superior methods of Presto City.
15. Our HuggyBunny brand is the best-selling brand of children’s clothing. Parents everywhere recognise the HuggyBunny logo as a mark of quality, and most of our customers show great brand loyalty. Sales reports have shown that parents are more likely to buy children’s clothes with the familiar HuggyBunny brand and logo than otherwise identical clothes without it. Therefore, if we use the HuggyBunny brand name and logo for the new line of clothing for teenagers that our company will soon be introducing, that clothing will sell better than it would if we labelled it with a new brand name and logo.

Sample GMAT AWA Essay

The following appeared in a memorandum from the president of a university:

"The university should allocate more funds to its athletic programmes. Our university’s sports teams have consistently outperformed those of other universities in regional competitions, and research shows that universities with strong athletic programmes tend to attract more students and boost school spirit. Therefore, we believe that by increasing funding for athletics, we can improve both student recruitment and overall university success."

Response:

The argument presented in the memorandum suggests that increasing funds for athletic programmes will lead to improved student recruitment and overall success for the university. While the premise may seem reasonable at first glance, the argument is based on several assumptions that need to be critically examined before any conclusions can be drawn.

First, the argument assumes that past performance in regional competitions is a reliable indicator of the future success of the athletic programmes. However, it fails to consider the possibility that the success of the university’s sports teams may be due to factors other than funding, such as the talent of current athletes, coaching quality, or the specific nature of the competitions in which they are involved. Simply allocating more money to these programmes may not guarantee the continuation of their success, nor does it address potential weaknesses in other areas such as training or facilities.

Second, the argument asserts that universities with strong athletic programmes tend to attract more students, but it provides no concrete evidence to support this claim. While it is true that some prospective students may be drawn to universities with strong athletic traditions, many others prioritize academic programmes, campus culture, and extracurricular opportunities over sports. The argument overlooks the possibility that improving academic offerings or campus amenities might have a more significant impact on student recruitment than enhancing athletics.

Another assumption in the argument is that increased funding for athletics will automatically boost school spirit. However, school spirit is influenced by many factors, such as student engagement in extracurricular activities, the quality of academic programmes, and overall campus climate. Simply spending more money on athletics may not lead to an increase in school spirit if the university does not also foster an inclusive, vibrant campus community that appeals to a diverse range of students.

Lastly, the argument does not address the allocation of resources. The university must consider whether the additional funds for athletics would be better spent in other areas. For example, enhancing academic programmes, improving campus infrastructure, or increasing student support services may provide more direct benefits to students and the university’s overall reputation.

In conclusion, while the idea of increasing funding for athletic programmes may seem beneficial, the argument relies on assumptions that have not been adequately substantiated. A more thorough analysis, including data on student preferences, the effectiveness of the athletic programmes, and a comparison of funding allocations across various departments, would be necessary to determine the best course of action for the university.

From the desk of Yocket

Mastering the Analytical Writing Assessment is not just about improving one section of the GMAT, it’s about refining skills that can empower you in your MBA journey and professional life. While the AWA is no longer part of the GMAT, its relevance in honing critical thinking and communication remains as strong as ever.

At Yocket Prep, we celebrate every student’s unique path to success. With personalised guidance, time-tested strategies, and effective study tools, we’re here to help you unlock your potential and approach every challenge with ease.